The Labrador's lineage goes back to 16th century Newfoundland. This dog was the fisherman's working dog, helping to carry ropes to boats and retrievinng fishing nets in the water. The labrador's predessor, the St. John's water dog, had tuxedo markings of a white chest, feet, chin and muzzle. This trait will occasionally be expressed in our modern day labradors as a white spot on the chest (known as a medallion), or stray white hairs on the feet or muzzle.

Valued for it's loyal and brave personality, the labrador retriever is the quinesential dog. Friends with everyone, the labrador makes a great family dog. Labradors love being outdoors and need plenty of exercise. They are excellent at the job they were bred to do, which is retrieving. If your family is not one of hunters, then labradors would love to retrieve sticks and balls to fullfill that natural instinct.